Things to Do in the DMV This Month
School may be back in session soon, but the Capital Region isn’t ready to let the sun set on summertime fun just yet. Whether you’re looking for showstopping theater, live music, family-driven activities, cultural diversions, or end-of-season attractions, here’s a roundup of the top events happening this August across DC, Virginia, and Maryland!
Want more of DC’s best? Check out the Lifestyle Section of our blog to discover everything at your fingertips, from the coolest places to grab a cocktail to the latest after-school programs for kids.
DC
Otakon | Through August 2 | Walter E. Washington Convention Center
Celebrate anime, manga, gaming, and Japanese pop culture at one of the country’s largest fan conventions.
Zoh Amba | August 1 | Pearl Street Warehouse
Free-jazz saxophonist Zoh Amba blends experimental jazz with acoustic singer-songwriter influences on her latest album, Eyes Full.
“Tomorrow the Sun Will Rise” | August 1-September 20 | The Phillips Collection
This juried exhibition features multimedia works by 48 artists from across DC, Maryland, and Virginia.
Karol G | August 2 | Northwest Stadium
Sing along as the global superstar performs hits from her tropical-inspired album Tropicoqueta.
Washington Spirit Home Games | August 2, 8, 23 & 30 | Audi Field
Cheer on the Washington Spirit during a month packed with NWSL action.
Wordplay Wednesday | August 5 | Planet Word
Enjoy an evening of karaoke, word games, and interactive exhibits at this after-hours event.
Hillwood After Hours | August 5 | Hillwood Estate, Museum & Gardens
Explore the estate after dark with live music, art activities, and evening garden access.
Washington Mystics Home Games | August 5, 7, 9, 15, 19 & 21 | CareFirst Arena
Cheer on the Mystics as they continue their home schedule throughout August.
Kalorama Park Concert Series | August 6, 13 & 20 | Kalorama Park
Pack a picnic and enjoy free outdoor concerts all month long.
Jazz in the Garden | August 7 & 14 | National Gallery of Art Sculpture Garden
Spend Thursday evenings listening to live music in one of DC’s favorite outdoor summer traditions.
Mahjong Tournament | August 8 | Union Market
Whether you’re a seasoned player or a beginner, this multi-style tournament welcomes all skill levels.
Chang-Rae Lee | August 13 | Politics and Prose (Connecticut Avenue)
The acclaimed novelist discusses A Tender Age, his latest coming-of-age novel.
Rock the Dock | August 14 | The Wharf
Enjoy a free evening of go-go and R&B along the waterfront.
African Diaspora International Film Festival | August 14-16 | George Washington University
Discover films and documentaries celebrating African history, culture, and storytelling.
Panda Fest | August 15-16 | Penn Quarter
Celebrate Asian culture with food vendors, performances, family activities, and panda-themed fun.
Dark Comedy at Keegan Theatre | August 15-September 6 | Keegan Theatre
This witty new comedy explores nostalgia, romance, and playground memories with plenty of laughs.
Foo Fighters | August 17 | Nationals Park
Dave Grohl returns to his hometown with the Foo Fighters in support of the band’s newest album.
My Chemical Romance | August 18 | Nationals Park
Celebrate The Black Parade with a stadium performance from the iconic pop-punk band.
The Notebook | August 18-30 | National Theatre
Nicholas Sparks’s bestselling romance is reimagined as a heartfelt Broadway musical.
Improvapalooza | August 19-23 | Washington Improv Theater
Enjoy more than 200 improv performances during this annual comedy festival.
Ella Mai | August 21 | The Anthem
The Grammy-winning R&B artist performs songs from her latest album.
National Book Festival | August 22 | Walter E. Washington Convention Center
Meet bestselling authors and attend talks featuring more than 80 writers across multiple genres.
Masego | August 22 | The Anthem
The singer, saxophonist, and producer brings his signature blend of jazz, R&B, and soul to DC.
Freedom 250 Grand Prix | August 22-23 | National Mall
Watch IndyCar drivers race through a temporary downtown street circuit.
Summer Restaurant Week | August 24-30 | Participating Restaurants
Take advantage of prix fixe menus and special offers at restaurants across DC.
Jack Harlow | August 25 | The Anthem
The chart-topping rapper brings his latest tour to DC.
Tony Fletcher | August 27 | Politics and Prose (Union Market)
Join the veteran music biographer for a discussion on Pow! When UK Punk Went Pop, 1980-84.
Therapy Gecko | August 27 | Miracle Theatre
Comedian Lyle Drescher answers audience questions in character as the internet-famous Therapy Gecko.
Cooper Alan Country Cruise | August 30 | The Wharf
Cactch live country music while cruising the Potomac aboard City Cruises.
➤ Discover even more DC gems with these posts next:
VIRGINIA
Sleeping Beauty | August 1-2 | Wolf Trap
The Maryland Youth Ballet presents a family-friendly production of the beloved fairy tale.
The NSO Performs Beethoven’s Ninth Symphony | August 14 | Wolf Trap
The National Symphony Orchestra performs an all-Beethoven program led by Gianandrea Noseda.
Alexandria Restaurant Week | August 14-23 | Alexandria
Sample prix fixe menus and specials from restaurants throughout Old Town and beyond.
Alexandria Sidewalk Sale | August 14-16 | Old Town Alexandria
Stroll Old Town while browsing outdoor sidewalk sales, seasonal specials, and deals from dozens of local boutiques and shops.
Diana Ross | August 19 | Wolf Trap (Vienna)
The Motown legend returns to Wolf Trap for an evening of iconic hits, including “Ain’t No Mountain High Enough,” “I’m Coming Out,” and “Stop! In the Name of Love.”
Leesburg Festival of Kites & Crafts | August 22 | Ida Lee Park (Leesburg)
Watch colorful kites fill the sky while browsing artisan vendors, handmade crafts, food, and family-friendly activities.
Merrily We Roll Along | August 25-November 1 | Signature Theatre (Arlington)
Stephen Sondheim’s acclaimed musical follows three lifelong friends as their story unfolds in reverse.
Around the World Cultural Food Festival | August 29 | Oronoco Bay Park (Alexandria)
Sample cuisine from around the globe while enjoying cultural performances, live music, artisan vendors, and family-friendly activities along Alexandria’s waterfront.
➤ Looking for more great spots to sample the DC scene? Start with these posts next:
MARYLAND
Black Books Matter Fest | August 1 | National Harbor
Meet more than 50 authors during this annual celebration of Black literature.
Howard County Restaurant & Craft Beverage Weeks | Through August 9 | Howard County
Sample special prix fixe menus and craft beverage pairings at more than 45 restaurants across Columbia, Ellicott City, Elkridge, Laurel, and beyond during this countywide dining event.
Living History on Pinkney Street: First Maryland Regiment | August 15 | Historic Annapolis
Step back to the Revolutionary War era as costumed interpreters reenact the First Maryland Regiment’s march to war through historic Annapolis.
Washington Folk Festival | August 23 | Glen Echo Park
Enjoy free performances featuring bluegrass, zydeco, Celtic music, and other folk traditions.
The 4 Queens featuring Vivian Ross | August 28 | Bethesda Theater
Celebrate four legendary voices in one high-energy show as Vivian Ross pays tribute to Tina Turner, Aretha Franklin, Whitney Houston, and Donna Summer with powerhouse vocals and timeless hits.
KevOnStage | August 29 | MGM National Harbor
The comedian brings his relatable stand-up tour to National Harbor.
Curious about more than just local events and happenings? For all your DMV real estate needs, we’re here to help! Get in touch with us by filling out the form on this page, calling us at 202.280.2060, or emailing connect@jennsmira.com.
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